Agrinspiration
Written by Eli Matola
Jack Hemstreet transforms his passion for plants into capital. A junior majoring in Agriculture, he draws inspiration from plants he grows and then projects his ideas onto T-shirts. While he only recently moved to Hilo, his business is not brand-new—he has designed shirts since before he relocated from Eugene, Oregon.
One of Hemstreet's plant-inspired T-shirts. Photo courtesy of Jack Hemstreet.
This semester, the junior is taking Horticulture, Aquaponics, and English courses, in addition to participating in a Directed Work Experience Program. When asked how these classes affect his business, he responded, “Being able to connect with nature through planting[s] and readings, I can visualize the spirits bringing nature into my art. As a screen printer[,] I am able to … visualize the essence of nature and apply it towards the creation of art that will be printed.”
He adds, “The reading in Literature brings different mind sets and philosophy that frees my mind to think in many directions.”
Hemstreet loves his major and has been able to apply it in ways he did not think he could. He explained, “T-shirt printing and horticulture [do not] … correlate, but it does help with the inspiration behind the art. I don't plan on screen printing for the rest of my life. However[,] it is a great way to make some money … in school. In the end[,] I see myself living on and managing a [permaculture] farm.”
"Salt Mellem." Photo courtesy of Jack Hemstreet.
The University of Hawaii at Hilo classes that the junior takes have impacted style and given him a lot more print concepts. The impact has been profound. To view Hemstreet’s designs, visit PintoPress.com.
